An improved gas detector apparatus includes a spectral source/bolometer for conducting an electrical current and for producing infrared radiation. The source/bolometer has a characteristic resistance that is a predetermined function of the source/bolometer temperature. A concentrating reflector directs the infrared radiation through a spectral filter and the gas. A return reflector is disposed along the axis beyond the spectral filer and the gas, such that at least a portion of the infrared radiation passing through the filter and the gas is reflected back through the gas and the filter to the source/bolometer. A driver/detector drives a current through the source/bolometer, determines the characteristic resistance of the source/bolometer, and detects the gas from a variation of the characteristic resistance.
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February 1, 2001
April 16, 2002
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